Smart Driving

Advice on smart driving

Switch it off – If it is
safe to do so, turn off your engine when stationary for more than a
minute or two. Modern cars use virtually no extra fuel when they’re
re-started without pressing the accelerator so you won’t waste lots of
fuel turning the car back on.

Shift to a higher gear as soon as
possible – Driving at lower engine speeds reduces fuel consumption.
Change up a gear between 2000 and 2500 revolutions per minute
(rpm).

Drive smoothly – Anticipate the road as far ahead as
possible to avoid unnecessary braking and acceleration. Decelerate
early when slowing down.

Slow down – Avoid excessive speeds when
possible. Driving at 85mph uses approximately 25% more fuel than 70mph.

Close your windows if travelling at 60mph or more – The
aerodynamic drag on your car of an open window at speeds of 60mph or
more adds to your fuel usage. Keep your windows closed at high
speeds.

Check tyre pressure frequently – at least once a month and
before long journeys. Under-inflated tyres are not only dangerous and
but also increase your fuel consumption. While checking tyre pressure,
it is also advisable to check the depth of the tyre tread to ensure
they are legally compliant.

Lighten your load – Carrying excess
weight in a vehicle increases fuel consumption as your car has to work
harder to accelerate. Remove heavy objects and clear your boot of
unnecessary items so that you can travel as lightly as possible.

Air conditioning – use air conditioning sparingly as your engine has to
work harder to power the air conditioning machinery. If driving at low
speed, open the window instead.

Remove roof boxes and racks if
not being used – Car designers strive to make their vehicles as
aerodynamic as possible. Adding a roof box or rack spoils this by
increasing drag on your car, making your engine work harder and
increasing fuel usage, particularly at high speeds.

Don’t warm
the engine – modern engines don’t need to be warmed up, so idling
before you start a journey simply wastes precious fuel.